Ashes: Peter Siddle backs Mitchell Johnson to make an impact in Gabba Test

Updated
Tue 19 Nov 2013, 12:49 PM AEDT

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Peter Siddle speaks ahead of the first Ashes Test in Brisbane

ABC News

Australian fast bowler Peter Siddle believes the return of Mitchell Johnson to the Test team is exciting for fans and the Australian team.

Johnson returns to the line-up for the first Ashes Test at the Gabba starting Thursday, having not featured in this year's Ashes series in England.

But he will line up in a pace trio that Siddle describes as "ready to go".

Importantly, Siddle and Johnson have both tasted some success throughout their four Test appearances at the Gabba, with Johnson having claimed 17 wickets at 26.17, while Siddle has 14 wickets at 34.57.

Harris is yet to bowl in a Test at the Gabba, but it is his home wicket.

"It's great to have (Johnson) back alongside. I've played a lot of Test cricket with him," Siddle said.

"We're good mates, we've enjoyed a lot of good times together and I think his experience is going to be great throughout this series.

"I jut think his knowledge of the game, his skill - he's taken over 200 Test wickets, that's quite impressive - so to have Mitch back around the unit and obviously Ryan Harris, the way he bowled over in England was outstanding, so I think we have a nice strong attack ready to go.

"Everyone saw how Mitch was bowling over in India - the pace, the bounce, the consistency. I think it's very exciting for Australian fans to watch and for us as a team to have him back on board."

Australia is on the rebound from a 3-0 Ashes loss to England in July and August. The last time England batted at the Gabba in 2010 the side scored 1 for 517 in the second innings, with Alastair Cook scoring 235 not out.

Siddle, who has played in three successive Ashes series losses, was quick to point out the England side was dismissed for 260 in the first innings of that Gabba Test and says history counts for nothing.

Australia will be more aggressive: Siddle

"Our plan has got a long stronger," Siddle said.

"From things that we learnt in England, we know what we can do differently.

"We'll attack it hard here. We know there are a few players we need to work on. No doubt we'll have them covered here starting Thursday."

With wet weather around early in the week the Gabba wicket may be inviting for the bowling attack, but Siddle said conditions in Brisbane can change quickly.

"We haven't even been out to the Gabba yet," he said.

"We haven't had a look at the wicket and there is still plenty of time before the match starts."